365betÓéÀÖ

An Ayurvedic Approach to Paronychia w.s.r. to Kunakha: A Single Case Study

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: An Ayurvedic Approach to Paronychia w.s.r. to Kunakha: A Single Case Study
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author(s):

Tabassum Parveen
MD Scholar, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyan, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
Reetu Sharma
Associate Professor, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyan, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: An Ayurvedic Approach to Paronychia w.s.r. to Kunakha: A Single Case Study

Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10iSuppl3.1197

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Paronychia, known as Kunakha in Ayurveda, represents a condition characterized by infections at the nail bed, commonly bacterial or fungal. The term "Kunakha" translates to "bad nail," indicating the perceived ugliness and discomfort caused by recurrent infections. The current case study highlights the Ayurvedic approach to treating a 54-year-old male patient suffering from chronic paronychia resistant to contemporary allopathic treatments. The study employs both internal and external Ayurvedic therapy over a 60-day period, leading to significant improvements in clinical symptoms and nail appearance.

Ayurvedic Treatment Methodology

The treatment protocol consisted of various formulations, including Mahamanjisthadi Kwath, Arogyavardhni Vati, Kaishore Guggulu, and several others that were administered both internally and externally. The external applications incorporated Panchwalkal Kwath and Tankan Bhasma, along with oil preparations for localized treatment. These formulations were chosen based on their ability to clear inflammation, purify blood, and support the health of the affected area. The comprehensive treatment aimed to address the imbalances of Vata and Pitta doshas, facilitating healing and proper nail growth.

Case Progression and Results

Upon initially presenting with signs such as brittle yellowish nails and an inflamed nail bed, the patient's condition showed gradual improvement by the end of 60 days of Ayurvedic treatment. Follow-ups indicated reduced swelling and pain, normalized blood pressure, and eventual regrowth of healthy nail tissue. By leveraging holistic principles and natural remedies, the treatment effectively resolved the symptoms of Kunakha while restoring the overall health of the patient. The remarkable changes noted after the therapy underlined the effectiveness of the individualized Ayurvedic approach.

Conclusion

The successful management of paronychia through Ayurvedic treatment in the presented case demonstrates the potential of traditional medicine in treating conditions resistant to modern approaches. With no significant side effects observed, the use of herbal formulations not only alleviated the immediate symptoms of swelling, pain, and discoloration but also promoted overall well-being. This case study adds to the growing evidence supporting Ayurveda's role in managing chronic nail infections and encourages further exploration into its therapeutic applications.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the Ayurvedic term for nail infections and its meaning?

In Ayurveda, nail infections are referred to as 'Kunakha'. The term 'Ku' means 'bad' while 'Nakha' refers to 'nail'. It describes a condition similar to modern paronychia, characterized by infection at the nail bed.

How effective was the Ayurvedic treatment for the case study patient?

The Ayurvedic treatment showed significant improvement in the patient's condition. After 60 days, symptoms like swelling, pain, and discoloration were greatly reduced, and normal nail growth resumed, demonstrating successful management of Kunakha.

What types of treatments were administered to the patient?

The treatments included both internal and external Ayurvedic medications. Internal formulations like Mahamanjisthadi Kwath and Arogyavardhni vati were used, along with external applications such as Panchwalkal Kwath for cleansing and Bactimo oil for soothing the affected area.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “An Ayurvedic Approach to Paronychia w.s.r. to Kunakha: A Single Case Study�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Blood:
In the study, 'Rakta Dhatu' refers to blood, which is purified and treated to combat various skin ailments. Several ayurvedic formulations like 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' and 'Giloy Satva' are mentioned as blood purifiers.

2) Pitta:
Pitta Dosha is one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda, often imbalanced in conditions such as 'Kunakha'. The treatments aimed at balancing Pitta include 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' which acts by clearing excess heat from the blood.

3) Vati:
'Vati' refers to a type of Ayurvedic medicine in tablet form, such as 'Arogyavardhni Vati', used in the treatment protocols for conditions like 'Kunakha' and other symptoms like inflammation and itching.

4) Disease:
Kunakha, known as Paronychia in modern medical terminology, is referred to as a disease characterized by nail infections, pain, and swelling. Treatments aim to address the underlying dosha imbalances causing the disease.

5) Guggulu:
'Kaishore Guggulu', a medication mentioned in the treatment protocol, helps in purifying the blood and reducing inflammation. It shows antibacterial and anti-allergic properties, useful in curing 'Kunakha'.

6) Pain:
Pain is one of the symptoms observed in the case of 'Kunakha', characterized by swollen and inflamed nail beds. Ayurvedic treatments aimed to alleviate this pain through anti-inflammatory and blood-purifying medications.

7) Candraprabha (Candra-prabha):
'Chandraprabha Vati', an integral part of the treatment process, is highlighted for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive properties. It also helps in reducing systemic symptoms and supporting overall health.

8) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
The document details an Ayurvedic approach to treating 'Kunakha', a nail disease. Ayurveda uses a variety of treatments including herbal formulations, internal and external therapies to bring balance to the doshas.

9) Swelling:
Swelling, particularly of the nail bed, is a primary symptom of 'Kunakha'. Treatments like 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' and 'Kaishore Guggulu' help alleviate swelling due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

10) Rakta:
'Rakta Dhatu' or blood plays a crucial role in the development and treatment of 'Kunakha'. Ayurvedic formulations aim to purify the blood and reduce inflammation and infection at the nail bed.

11) Vata:
'Vata Dosha' is one of the three fundamental doshas in Ayurveda and contributes to conditions like 'Kunakha' when imbalanced. Treatments aimed to balance Vata include using herbs with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

12) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, 'Kunakha' is considered a 'Tridoshaja' condition primarily involving 'Pitta' and 'Vata' doshas. Specific treatments target these doshas to restore balance and address the underlying causes of the nail disease.

13) Kapha:
'Kapha Dosha' is the third primary dosha in Ayurveda, which in excess can contribute to various disorders. Although not the primary focus in this case, the treatments for 'Kunakha' may indirectly influence Kapha.

14) Asthi (Ashthi):
'Asthi Dhatu' refers to bone tissue in Ayurveda, and nails are considered its byproducts. 'Kunakha' ailments are linked to the vitiation of 'Asthi Dhatu', and treatments aim to restore its balance.

15) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a key ingredient in several Ayurvedic formulations like 'Arogyavardhni Vati', known for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and blood-purifying properties, making it beneficial in the treatment of 'Kunakha'.

16) Malhar:
'Gandhak Malhar' is an ointment used externally in this case study to treat skin infections and promote healing by addressing symptoms like itching and swelling associated with 'Kunakha'.

17) Tankan:
Tankan Bhasma, an external application used in the treatment, is noted for its 'Kleda Nashaka' (moisture-removing), antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, helpful for conditions like 'Kunakha'.

18) Dhatu:
In Ayurveda, 'Dhatus' are the seven fundamental tissues, with 'Rakta Dhatu' (blood) and 'Asthi Dhatu' (bones) being specifically relevant in the paper for the treatment and understanding of 'Kunakha'.

19) Rasa (Rasha):
'Rasa Dhatu' is the primary essence or plasma that nourishes all the tissues in the body. Maintaining the purity of 'Rasa' is crucial in Ayurveda to treat diseases, including 'Kunakha'.

20) Kshudraroga (Kshudra-roga, Ksudraroga):
Minor ailments like 'Kunakha' fall under 'Kshudra Roga' in Ayurveda. Despite being categorized as minor, such conditions require specific treatments to manage symptoms and promote overall nail health.

21) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
'Tridosha' refers to the three biological energies in Ayurveda: 'Vata', 'Pitta', and 'Kapha'. 'Kunakha' is a 'Tridoshaja' condition, meaning it involves all three doshas, but primarily Pitta and Vata.

22) Medicine:
Various Ayurvedic medicines like 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' and 'Kaishore Guggulu' are used in this study to treat 'Kunakha', focusing on anti-inflammatory, blood-purifying, and dosha-balancing properties.

23) Samhita:
Classical texts like 'Sushruta Samhita' provide insights and guidelines on the management of 'Kunakha'. These texts are essential references in Ayurvedic medicine for treatment protocols.

24) Pravara:
In the Dashavidha Pariksha, 'Pravara' is used to indicate strong or excellent, as seen in various capacities like 'Satmya Pravara' indicating good compatibility with dietary habits, relevant for overall health management.

25) Pradhan:
In Ayurvedic terminology, 'Pradhan' refers to dominance; for example, 'Pitta Pradhan' indicating Pitta is the dominant dosha in the 'Kunakha' condition, guiding the specific treatment approach.

26) Nidana:
'Nidana Sthana' is a section in ancient Ayurvedic scriptures like 'Sushruta Samhita' that outlines the etiology ('Nidana') and characteristics of diseases, including 'Kunakha', essential for diagnosis and treatment.

27) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Reetu Sharma is an Associate Professor mentioned in the study associated with the treatment and research on 'Kunakha'. She has contributed to the case study and its findings according to Ayurvedic principles.

28) Satva (Shatva):
'Satva' in Ayurveda refers to mental strength or quality. Assessing 'Satva Pravara' can help understand the patient's mental capability to endure treatments and recover, crucial in holistic healing approaches.

29) Nimba:
Nimba, or Azadirachta indica, is a key ingredient in 'Arogyavardhni Vati', recognized for its antiseptic properties that aid in treating infections and promoting skin health, beneficial for 'Kunakha'.

30) Sara (Shara):
'Sara' refers to the essence or quality of a person's body tissues. In the context of the case study, 'Mamsa Sara' indicates muscle tissue quality, which is relevant for understanding the patient's overall health and treatment response.

31) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
'Sushruta Samhita' is one of the classical Ayurvedic texts that provides detailed descriptions of diseases, including 'Kunakha'. It offers therapeutic guidelines and treatment methodologies based on ancient wisdom.

32) Mahamanjishthadi (Mahamanjisthadi, Maha-manjishthadi):
'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' is an Ayurvedic formulation used in the treatment of 'Kunakha' for its anti-inflammatory, blood-purifying properties, targeting the root causes of nail infections and promoting healing.

33) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial properties are critical in treating 'Kunakha' as the condition involves bacterial infections. Medicines like 'Kaishore Guggulu' have these properties, helping to eliminate bacteria and facilitate healing.

34) Asthidhatu (Asthi-dhatu):
'Asthi Dhatu' denotes bone tissue, of which nails are considered a byproduct. In 'Kunakha', treatments aim to restore the balance of this tissue to alleviate symptoms and promote nail health.

35) Shothahara (Sothahara, Shotha-hara):
'Shothahara' is an Ayurvedic term for anti-inflammatory properties. Medicines like 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' possess Shothahara effects, crucial for reducing swelling and inflammation in 'Kunakha'.

36) Vatarakta (Vata-rakta):
'Kaishore Guggulu', mentioned in the treatment, is commonly used for 'Vatarakta', an inflammation disorder involving Vata and Rakta. It illustrates the herbal formulation's use in similar chronic inflammatory conditions like 'Kunakha'.

37) Prasadaka:
'Prasadaka' signifies purifying or enhancing properties, particularly relevant to treatments like 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath', which are intended to purify the blood and improve the appearance and health of nails affected by 'Kunakha'.

38) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation, or the imbalance of doshas in Ayurveda, is a key concept in understanding conditions like 'Kunakha'. Addressing dosha vitiation is crucial to restore balance and promote healing in affected nails.

39) Gokshura (Goksura, Go-kshura):
'Gokshura', part of formulations like 'Gokshuradi Guggulu', possesses properties beneficial for treating 'Kunakha', such as diuretic and anti-inflammatory qualities, helping in reducing related symptoms like swelling.

40) Haratala:
'Haratala', an ingredient in 'Rasmanikya', contributes to the treatment of 'Kunakha' by offering antimicrobial properties that help in managing infections and promoting healing of the nail bed.

41) Trikatu (Tri-katu):
Trikatu, a combination of three pungent herbs, is included in formulations like 'Kaishore Guggulu'. Its properties aid digestion and metabolism, impactful in reducing inflammation and purifying blood in 'Kunakha'.

42) Vikriti (Vikrti):
'Vikriti' refers to the state of imbalance or disturbance in doshas. The case study assesses 'Vikriti Tridosha', with Pitta predominance, to tailor the treatment for effectively addressing 'Kunakha'.

43) Bhasma (Bhasman):
'Tankan Bhasma' is an example of a mineral preparation used externally in this study for its wound-healing and antimicrobial properties, aiding in the treatment of 'Kunakha'.

44) Ruksha (Ruksa):
'Ruksha' means rough in Sanskrit. The study mentioned 'Ruksha Asita' (dry and darker texture) nails as one of the symptoms of 'Kunakha', which are addressed by specific Ayurvedic treatments.

45) Kshara (Ksara):
'Kshara' refers to alkaline substances in Ayurveda, used for their sharp, piercing, and cleansing properties. 'Tankan', used in treatment, is a type of 'Kshara' that helps in wound management and infection control for 'Kunakha'.

46) Shakti (Sakti):
'Ahara Shakti' and 'Vyayama Shakti' in the Dashavidha Pariksha assess a patient's digestive and physical strength, crucial for planning dietary and exercise routines that support the treatment of conditions like 'Kunakha'.

47) Sthana:
[see source text or glossary: Sthana]

48) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
'Vyadhi' refers to disease or illness. 'Kunakha' is the specific 'Vyadhi' or disease addressed in the study, characterized by nail infections and symptoms such as swelling, pain, and discoloration.

49) Nakha:
'Nakha', which means nail, is central to the study as 'Kunakha' relates to nail infections. Treatments aim to restore the health and appearance of the nails affected by this condition.

50) Mamsa (Mamsha):
'Mamsa Dhatu' or muscle tissue is relevant in 'Kunakha', where muscle around the nails is affected. Treatments focus on balancing tissues like 'Mamsa' to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

51) Vrana:
In the study, 'Vrana' treatments involve wound healing. 'Tankan Bhasma' and other external applications promote the healing of infected and inflamed nail beds in conditions like 'Kunakha'.

52) Honey:
Honey is used as an adjuvant in Ayurvedic treatments such as the daily application of 'Tankan Bhasma' mixed with honey. Its antibacterial and healing properties make it beneficial for 'Kunakha'.

53) Maha (Maha°):
In this context, 'Maha' refers to substantial or great. Formulations like 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' are used for their significant therapeutic benefits in treating nail conditions such as 'Kunakha'.

54) Roga:
'Roga' means disease in Sanskrit. 'Kunakha' is characterized under the category of 'Kshudra Roga' in Ayurveda, which encompasses minor ailments but still requires treatment to manage symptoms and promote healing.

55) Daha:
'Daha' refers to burning sensation, a symptom that can occur in 'Kunakha'. Treatments aimed at Pitta dosha, which is responsible for heat, help alleviate 'Daha' as part of the treatment process.

56) Azadirachta indica:
This scientific name corresponds to 'Neem', used in the treatment through 'Arogyavardhni Vati'. It possesses antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating 'Kunakha'.

57) Vyayamashakti (Vyayamasakti, Vyayama-shakti):
'Vyayama Shakti' assesses a person's capacity for physical exercise. Knowing this helps in planning an appropriate regimen to support overall health and enhance the effectiveness of treatments for conditions like 'Kunakha'.

58) Nidanasthana (Nidana-sthana):
'Nidana Sthana' is part of Ayurvedic texts like 'Sushruta Samhita', providing etiological information essential for diagnosing and understanding diseases such as 'Kunakha'.

59) Embelia ribes:
A medicinal plant known as 'Vidanga', included in formulations like 'Kaishore Guggulu', is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and purifying properties, useful in treating 'Kunakha'.

60) Aharashakti (Aharasakti, Ahara-shakti):
'Ahara Shakti' refers to the digestive strength of an individual. Assessing this helps in customizing dietary recommendations that can support the treatment of 'Kunakha' and overall health.

61) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a key symptom of 'Kunakha', marked by swelling, redness, and pain of the nail bed. Treatments like 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath' are used for their powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

62) Daruharidra (Daru-haridra):
An ingredient in 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath', Daruharidra, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for conditions like 'Kunakha' involving infected nails.

63) Girisindura:
'Girisindura' is a component of 'Gandhak Malhar', contributing its therapeutic properties to treat 'Kunakha' by promoting healing and preventing infections.

64) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
'Rakta Dhatu' or blood tissue is central to the treatment of 'Kunakha'. Ayurvedic treatments aim to purify and balance this Dhatu to alleviate symptoms and promote healing of the nails.

65) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
'Pitta Dosha', being dominant in 'Kunakha', is targeted in the treatments to reduce heat, inflammation, and infections. Balancing Pitta is crucial to managing and curing the condition.

66) Kaphapitta (Kapha-pitta):
In some cases, 'Kapha-Pitta' combinations could influence the condition of 'Kunakha', with treatments aiming to primarily balance Pitta but also ensuring that Kapha does not exacerbate the symptoms.

67) Manjishtha (Manjistha, Mamjishtha):
A critical ingredient in 'Mahamanjisthadi Kwath', 'Manjishtha' is known for its blood-purifying and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating 'Kunakha' and improving nail health.

68) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
'Rasa Dhatu' represents the essence or plasma in the body. The purity and health of 'Rasa Dhatu' are essential in treating 'Kunakha', as it lays the foundation for the subsequent 'Dhatus' including 'Rakta' (blood).

69) Adhishthana (Adhisthana):
'Adhisthana' refers to the primary location or site of a disease, which in the case of 'Kunakha' is the nail bed. Understanding this helps in targeting treatments effectively.

70) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
'Bhaishajya Ratanavali' is an Ayurvedic text that provides formulations and treatment guidelines for various conditions, including 'Kunakha'. It ensures the use of classical remedies with proven benefits.

71) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
The combination of 'Vata' and 'Pitta' dosha is primarily involved in 'Kunakha', influencing symptoms like inflammation and brittleness of nails. Treatments aim to balance these doshas effectively.

72) Tridoshaja (Tridosaja):
'Kunakha' is a 'Tridoshaja' condition, involving imbalances of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. However, Pitta and Vata are primarily targeted in the treatment to manage the symptoms effectively.

73) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
'Vata Dosha', when vitiated, contributes to dryness, brittleness, and pain in 'Kunakha'. Treatments aim to balance Vata to alleviate these symptoms and promote the overall health of the nails.

74) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
'Kapha Dosha' imbalance, while not primary in 'Kunakha', can exacerbate symptoms like swelling and oozing. Comprehensive treatment aims to ensure Kapha does not further complicate the condition.

75) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study elaborates on the Ayurvedic treatments used for 'Kunakha', the observed improvements in symptoms, and the theoretical basis for the therapeutic approach.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 146]

Other Science Concepts:

[back to top]

Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �An Ayurvedic Approach to Paronychia w.s.r. to Kunakha: A Single Case Study�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Kshudraroga, Shothahara, Vatadosha, Pittadosha, Ayurvedic approach, Arogyavardhni vati, Kaishore Guggulu, Chandraprabha vati, Shaman Chikitsa, Gokshuradi Guggulu, Rakta Prasadaka, Rasmanikya, Strotoshodhaka, Giloy satva, Gandhak Rasayan, Mahamanjisthadi kwath, Bactimo oil.

Let's grow together!

I humbly request your help to keep doing what I do best: provide the world with unbiased sources, definitions and images. Your donation direclty influences the quality and quantity of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual insight the world is exposed to.

Let's make the world a better place together!

Like what you read? Help to become even better: